One of the most recent stops in Lakota Superintendent Matt Miller’s ongoing community listening tour was on Wednesday morning at his first Coffee Chat. More than 30 parents and residents gathered at Einstein Bros. Bagels off Allen Road to meet Miller, learn more about his vision for Lakota, and also provide input based on their own experiences.

“It was great to see so many people excited about the future of our schools and invested enough to spend their morning with me,” Miller said. “The more I hear from people, the more I can understand the work we need to prioritize to take Lakota to the next level for the good of all our students.”

In his opening remarks, Miller highlighted some of the values driving his educational philosophy, including the “3Es” – Enrolled, Employed or Enlisted. Promoting early exploration as a way to help students find their path, in any of these areas, is a priority for him. He also touched on his passion for letting the student voice guide Lakota’s work, as well as the importance of staff collaboration and the sharing of best practices.

For an hour on the first Wednesday every month, Superintendent Miller will be available for drop-in conversation with parents and residents at local coffee shops (rotating between West Chester and Liberty Township locations). The times will vary to accommodate different schedules.

The chats, paired with the Community Conversations happening with staff at every Lakota school, support one of Miller’s top priorities to listen to as many students, staff members, parents, residents and community and business leaders as possible.

Mark your calendar for the next coffee chat with Superintendent Miller on Oct. 4 from 2-3 p.m. at Coffee Beans and Brew. Coffee Chat times and locations for the remainder of the year are available on the Superintendent page of Lakota Online.